Description
Strawberry banana pudding is a creamy, fruity, and nostalgic dessert made with layers of homemade vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, juicy strawberries, and crispy vanilla wafers. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pudding (Homemade Vanilla Custard):
- 2 cups whole milk (for a rich and creamy texture)
- ½ cup heavy cream (adds extra richness)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (acts as a thickening agent)
- 3 large egg yolks (adds silkiness and structure)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for deep flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness)
For the Layers:
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced (sweet and creamy)
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, sliced (adds a fresh, tangy contrast)
- 1 box vanilla wafers (for a crunchy texture, or substitute graham crackers)
- 1 cup whipped cream (for a light, fluffy topping)
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions:
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (enhances the berry flavor)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (adds warmth and depth)
- Chocolate graham crackers or Oreos (for a chocolate twist)
- Coconut flakes (for a tropical variation)
- Greek yogurt (as a healthier alternative to whipped cream)
Instructions
Make the Pudding
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously.
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add ¼ cup of warm milk mixture to temper, then pour back into the saucepan.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool.
Assemble the Layers
- Slice bananas and strawberries. Toss bananas in lemon juice if desired.
- Layer vanilla wafers in a serving dish, followed by pudding, bananas, and strawberries.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and extra strawberries.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prevent Browning: Toss banana slices in lemon juice before layering.
- Crispier Texture: Add wafers just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Make-Ahead: Assembled pudding tastes better after chilling overnight.
- Substitutions: Use graham crackers, ladyfingers, or shortbread cookies instead of vanilla wafers.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Dessert